Calvert BOCC Discusses Maryland Water Infrastructure Financing Administration Financing For Water Management Projects

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — The Department of Public Works asked the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to sign off on its applications for Maryland Water Infrastructure Financing Administration (MWIFA) funding.

MWIFA provides state and federal assistance through low-interest loans, loan forgiveness, and grant funding for eligible water quality, drinking water, and stormwater management capital projects.

Public Works’ application includes five projects:

The Windy Hills project demolishes and abandons the existing pump station at the Paris Oaks site and relocates water operations to the Windy Hills Elementary property at the existing standpipe.

The Shores of Calvert Water Distribution Replacement project improves the 50-year-old water system. Planned improvements may include a new well, replacement of the distribution system, and installation of additional valves to enhance future maintenance and system isolation capabilities.

The AMI Prince Frederick project replaces aging Automated Meter Reading (AMR) systems with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) in the Prince Frederick water system. This enables two-way communication, allowing for automatic data transmission at set intervals.

The Highlands Low Pressure Sewer project replaces failing septic systems with a modern grinder pump system that discharges to a shared low-pressure force main.

The Chesapeake Heights/Dares Beach Water Distribution Replacement Phase 2A project loops the systems of Chesapeake Heights and Dares Beach along Dares Beach Road to eliminate dead ends and reduce water stagnation.

The BOCC raised concerns about the Highlands project before signing off. The project, if approved by residents of the Highlands, would mean that all homeowners in the neighborhood would be responsible for sharing the cost.

Commissioners were careful to say they weren’t approving the project itself, just the Department of Public Works’ ability to continue the process before going back to Highlands residents.

“I just want everyone to completely understand what this means before they go forward,” Commissioner Mike Hart said, adding that it was important that they reach every resident and work closely with the Highlands Homeowners Association.

Commissioner Buddy Hance agreed that it’s a big step and residents need to be “crystal clear” on how it will impact tax bills — no matter who owns the home.

Public Works Director John Cosgrove said they’re working closely with the Highlands HOA and will follow all public notice procedures before the HOA votes on the project.

---